The Maldives offers more than just flawless beaches. It has dozens of Instagrammable sites, which make mesmerising backgrounds for photos. North Male Atoll, in particular, offers unique settings which reflect the diversity of the nation. Check out some of them here.
1. Malé Fish Market
Are you looking for a good place to capture local lifestyle and culture? Then look no further than the Malé Fish Market. You get an abundance of fish varieties for sale at this bustling location and local experiences such as the filleting skills of the vendors, the haggling of buyers and the catch being unloaded from the dhonis. These boats themselves make wonderful backdrops as they come in eye-catching colours. The best time to visit this place is early morning, as that is when the fresh catch is brought in.
2. Sultan Park and the National Museum
If you love historic architecture, plan to take pictures of such buildings and take the memories home with you, you need to drop by Sultan Park and the National Museum. This is a site which blends lush greenery amid a historic and cultural setting. You get lily ponds and many trees in such places. A different picture of this place is portrayed when the evening sets in. Fairy lights are wrapped around trees, which set off a magical atmosphere. Experience local life and take shots of significant moments within this breathtaking setting. Heritage-focused photos, too, can be taken at the museum.
3. Dhoni cruise
Taking a tour on board a vessel is considered one of the best means for you to take in the natural beauty in North Male Atoll. Baros Maldives offers reef snorkelling excursions as well as sunset and dinner cruises aboard their traditional Maldivian dhoni, Nooma. This paves the way to countless photo opportunities, which will let you capture the turquoise vistas of the ocean, vibrant coral reefs, white sand shorelines and the diverse marine life all around. Clicking moments during your cruise will gift you with tropical pictures in a paradise backdrop. You also get a unique and authentic element when you take a few snaps on board a handcrafted wooden boat.
4. HP Reef
Looking to capture marine life teeming with biodiversity and colour? HP Reef is a fantastic spot in which you can click snaps of marine creatures such as sea turtles, sharks, manta rays, bannerfish, triggerfish, snappers and more. The clear water at this site is excellent for visibility and precise captures with dramatic backdrops like overhangs and caves. If you want to make the best of your underwater photographic adventure at this place, it is suitable to make it there between October and April when the plankton levels are low. The natural lighting there will allow you to take photographs with glowing underwater scenes and warm tones.
5. Hulhumalé Beach
Dreaming of pristine beaches with awesome azure waters fringed by palm trees? Then you have come to the right place. Hulhumalé Beach comprises a natural lagoon which is calm and shallow. Visit this place during the golden hours, which fall during the early mornings or late afternoons. This is the best time for stunning shots. Those who are staying in Maldives villas will have direct access to the beaches in the archipelago. Therefore, you will be able to capture the natural beauty at such places bathed in the warm rays of the sunrise or sunset.
